Monitored retrievable storage: A test of cultural values and a symbol of tribal sovereignty

Indian tribes have been directly involved in the development of nuclear energy and weapons production by the United States from its very inception since many uranium mines are located on or in proximity to American Indian lands. Tribal involvement with nuclear energy is increasing and another milestone in the relationship is the siting of a Monitored Retrievable Storage facility. The MRS is not just another DOE facility but is a symbol of tribal sovereignity and a testing of tribal cultural values. For once, tribes were given the same opportunities as states and counties; yet, tribes were criticized for exercizing their rights under existing legislation. Fifteen tribes applied for grants on the basis of the non-coercive, and purely voluntary, nature of the Nuclear Waste Negotiators invitation. The zeal with which the tribal decisionmakers were verbally attacked was surprising and completely unforseen. The greatest lesson that can come out of the siting process is that a tribe has made its own decision about the MRS and has exercised its sovereignity in the face of severe opposition. Regardless of the decision, if it is made in an informed and wise manner, then it should be applauded as a statement of sovereign rights